Adding Disc Brakes to a Nomad Mk2

[George Hetrick]

Hope Brakes/Thorn Rack:
I would prefer to use the Evo M4 4 piston option if there is clearance. If not the X2 should suffice but 4 pistons would add more braking power under a touring load.

Can anyone give a definite yes/no answer regarding Thorn rack clearance and a 4 piston Hope caliper? (Race Evo M4)

[George Hetrick]

The above was actually entered by the head mechanic at my bike shop. I figured if I took notes and used them to create a reply, I might miscopy something, so I just had him be me. Hopefully Dave will see it in the morning, and I'll be all set.

[Danneaux]

Fingers crossed for a good outcome for you, George. It would be nice to see the project through if possible so you can enjoy your Thorn racks and a rear disc as you'd like.

May I ask why you chose to go with a rear disc instead of v-brakes for the dirt-road tours? Was it to ensure good braking in possibly wet, muddy conditions? Or to match the one on the sus-fork?

I'm thinking if worse comes to worst, you could always revert to the v-brake at the rear and perhaps fit Kool-Stop salmon brake pads, or Swiss-Stops if you have CSS rims, keeping the sus-fork and disc up front.

Best,

Dan.

[George Hetrick]

Hey, Dan!

I think I mainly wanted to have the same brakes front/rear, but did want to go disc, just for the bad weather braking bonus. I have discs on my recumbent and really enjoy them. I feel like I'm finally joining the up-to-date club 

[Danneaux]

Sure! I understand, George. It's always nice to try new things, too. Sometimes they work out better, sometimes not, but it is fun to give 'em a go. I don't have a bike with discs myself, but I'm interested in the concept and would love to give them a test-ride someday.

All the best,

Dan.

[il padrone]

I think you'll find that nearly any brand of hydraulic brakes will work with a standard rack and mount. Mate of mine has some Hayes hydros and a Tubus Cargo fitted very happily to his MTB frame, and to an expidition touring frame (Bobo Bikes in Sydney). You definitely do not want to have a large spacer for the rack. The leverage on it WILL break the rack bolts under load and rough roads.


Here is my mate's Bobo with the Tubus Cargo.

[Big Al]

Have you considered keeping the existing brake that you have fitted and changing the rack to something like the Tubus Disco which has a curved lower fixing bracket designed to fit round the brake caliper. It could be a cheaper option if you are not able to exchange the brakes.